分类： society

In the latest World Justice Project Rule of Law Index, Antigua and Barbuda has demonstrated remarkable stability, securing the 38th position globally out of 143 countries and ranking fifth in Latin America and the Caribbean. The 2025 Index reveals that the nation maintained an overall score of 0.64, unchanged from 2024, despite a global downturn in governance and institutional integrity. Notably, 68% of countries worldwide experienced a decline in rule-of-law performance, marking the sixth consecutive year of deterioration. Antigua and Barbuda excelled in key areas such as ‘Absence of Corruption,’ ‘Fundamental Rights,’ and ‘Order and Security,’ with its judiciary earning a high integrity score of 0.80, and the police and military scoring 0.73, indicating minimal perceptions of bribery or abuse. However, the legislature remains a weak point, scoring only 0.39 on the corruption scale, well below the regional average, reflecting ongoing public skepticism about political transparency. The executive branch scored 0.59, showing moderate confidence in government accountability. Under ‘Constraints on Government Powers,’ the country scored 0.62, supported by judicial independence and a strong record of lawful transitions of power. Yet, limited access to government data and slow administrative processes dragged down the ‘Open Government’ rating to 0.52. Civil justice emerged as a standout strength with a score of 0.68, highlighting impartiality and low corruption within the court system. Criminal justice scored 0.53, indicating moderate efficiency in investigations and adjudication but weaknesses in correctional systems. The 2025 Index underscores Antigua and Barbuda’s institutional resilience, as its performance remained steady amidst global erosion of rule-of-law safeguards. The World Justice Project described the overall findings as ‘sobering,’ emphasizing the weakening of democratic checks and civic freedoms worldwide. Nevertheless, the Index serves as a crucial tool for identifying strengths to build upon and weaknesses to address.

The devastation wrought by Hurricane Melissa across Jamaica, Cuba, the Bahamas, and Haiti has left indelible scars on communities. Homes lie in ruins, schools are shattered, and neighborhoods are unrecognizable. Amid the wreckage, the emotional toll is profound, especially for children who have lost their sense of safety and stability. The trauma manifests in their behavior—fear, withdrawal, and restlessness—as they grapple with an uncertain future.

In these fragile times, the most potent tools for healing are attachment and responsive relationships. When caregivers reassure children with words like, ‘You are safe with me,’ trust begins to rebuild, and the brain starts to calm. Comfort, consistency, and kindness are the essential medicines for these young souls.

Practical steps for caregivers and educators include creating safe spaces in churches, community centers, or repaired classrooms where children can rest, eat, and play. Simple, predictable routines—such as songs before meals or quiet storytelling—provide a sense of normalcy. Access to nutritious food, clean water, and basic health services is crucial. Emotional first aid, like listening to a child’s story or holding them while they cry, can have profound healing effects.

Recovery also involves rebuilding systems of care. Training caregivers, teachers, and volunteers to recognize signs of stress and trauma is vital. Implementing primary caregiving, where one steady adult cares for a small group of children, helps restore trust and emotional safety. Collaborating with local health services, schools, and faith-based organizations to offer counseling and parenting workshops is equally important.

Play and storytelling are not luxuries but lifelines, enabling children to process their experiences, envision new futures, and rediscover joy. Even amidst the debris, hope can bloom through a familiar song, a warm meal, or a patient embrace. Rebuilding homes and schools is essential, but so is repairing hearts and minds.

When caregivers are steady, supported, and sensitive, they become beacons of stability for children learning to live again. Across the Caribbean, collective efforts—guided by compassion and practical care—can help heal the islands and restore the bright promise of tomorrow.

About the Author: Teacher Kishma Isaac is an experienced educator with over 17 years of teaching across early childhood and primary levels. A published author, coach, and mentor, she is known for her compassionate, practical, and hope-centered approach to rebuilding after crises.

The Royal Police Force of Antigua and Barbuda has launched an investigation into a shooting incident that occurred on Joseph Lane in St. John’s during the early hours of Monday, November 3, 2025. The incident left a 26-year-old man from All Saints with a non-life-threatening injury. According to reports, the victim and a companion were walking near Velvet Touch when they heard a loud explosion. The victim soon realized he had been struck by a bullet. He was promptly taken to the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, where he received treatment for a gunshot wound to his left shoulder. Medical staff confirmed his condition as stable and not life-threatening. Authorities are now seeking a male suspect described as approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall, last seen wearing dark clothing and a purple ski mask. The suspect was reportedly driving a dark grey Suzuki Vitara when he fled the scene. The police are urging anyone with information about the incident or the suspect to contact the Criminal Investigations Department at 462-3913 or Crimestoppers at 800-TIPS (8477).

In a heartfelt tribute, the Prime Minister has publicly expressed his deep admiration and affection for cricket icon Sir Viv Richards. Speaking at a recent event, the PM highlighted Sir Viv’s unparalleled contributions to the sport and his enduring legacy as a role model both on and off the field. The Prime Minister emphasized that Sir Viv’s achievements transcend cricket, inspiring generations with his leadership, resilience, and sportsmanship. He also acknowledged Sir Viv’s role in fostering unity and pride in the Caribbean and beyond. The PM’s remarks underscored the profound respect and gratitude felt by many for the legendary cricketer, whose impact continues to resonate globally.